MBDK revives heritage gems to boost tourism

The Star

3 days ago

KLANG's rich history is getting a modern makeover as the city earmarks iconic buildings and landmarks for revival under its Citra Warisan programme.
The initiative by the Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) earlier this year, is to transform historical sites into vibrant community hubs with the aim to attract tourists and foster local pride.
First on the list of buildings that was revitalised was the double-decked Jambatan Kota (Kota Bridge).
Built between 1958 and 1960, this engineering marvel once played a crucial role in Klang's growth.
Kota Raja Mahadi, a popular spot for photos, will get a new coat of paint.
Today, after a substantial RM700,000 refurbishment by MBDK, the bridge is no longer just a thoroughfare, but a cherished historical landmark.
Its lower deck remains open to pedestrians and cyclists, drawing visitors who want to connect with the city's architectural legacy.
Klang mayor Datuk Abd Hamid Hussain said this effort was a key part of supporting the city's cultural revitalisation and the broader Malaysia Madani vision.
'Citra Warisan Klang plays also an important part in the city's heritage tourism.
'Our records show that the bridge was officially opened in 1961 by Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, in conjunction with his coronation as the ninth Sultan of Selangor.
Ng (right) talking about placemaking with Abd Hamid during a site visit to Jambatan Kota.
'As locals and tourists visit this landmark, it breathes new life into the stories of Klang's historic past,' he said.
Interestingly, Jambatan Kota was constructed by Dorman Long Engineering Ltd, the same company behind Australia's iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.
By combining historical preservation with thoughtful placemaking, Klang is not just preserving its past — it's building a vibrant city, said Abd Hamid.
'Our aim is a long-term vision to create a city that is not only liveable, but lovable.'
Taman Pengkalan Batu off Jalan Tepi Sungai will be spruced up as part of the Citra Warisan programme.
Breathing life into old spaces
The Citra Warisan programme, added Abd Hamid, went beyond the bridge, targeting other culturally significant areas like Klang's Little India, Jalan Stesen and Taman Pengkalan Batu.
The plan, he said, was to create pedestrian-friendly zones and vibrant community spaces that celebrate local culture in these areas.
'Citra Warisan is a vision to transform alleys, parks and other public spaces into vibrant community hubs by incorporating elements that reflect the local culture, providing opportunities for recreation and relaxation, and encouraging tourists to visit,' he said.
A successful example of this 'adaptive reuse' can be seen at Jalan Stesen 1, where a pre-war building has been converted into a hotel.
'Hotels in pre-war buildings offer an uncommon experience.
'The combination of historical charm and modern comforts attracts tourists seeking authentic and memorable stays.
A hotel housed in a pre-war building at Jalan Stesen 1.
'Hotels converted from former coffee trading shops has its own unique story,' said Abd Hamid.
This approach, as MBDK Urban Planning Department director Yusrina Mohamad Yusof said, not only preserved cultural heritage, but also created unique destinations that attract tourists.
'It breathes new life into old structures and revitalises urban areas.
'It is adaptive reuse, not only preserves cultural heritage, but also creates unique and desirable destinations,' she said.
'It involves carefully integrating modern amenities while respecting the building's original character, contributing to a sense of place and enhancing the surrounding community,' she added.
Owners of Klang's Little India shops will also have to spruce up the exteriors of their respective buildings.
A more liveable city
Selangor local government and tourism committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim commended MBDK's efforts, noting that this approach to placemaking could have a significant positive impact on local economies and the overall quality of life.
'Creating pedestrian-friendly zones, hosting local food events and incorporating local culture can have a positive impact on local economies and social interactions.
'We have noticed creative uses of pre-war shops as art galleries as well as traditional bake shops drawing both domestic and foreign visitors.
'Allowing new use of old buildings, creates opportunities for locals to showcase their talents and skills, such as through artisan shops, can enhance a sense of ownership and pride,' he added.
Tourism Selangor chief executive officer Chua Yee Ling echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the Citra Warisan programme aligned with the state's tourism goals, including the #SelangorkanAda! and #SuprisingSelangor! campaigns for Visit Selangor 2025.
Chua: Citra Warisan programme aligns with the state's tourism goals.
'The goal is to attract eight million tourists to Selangor by the end of this year.
'Keeping the architectural details of pre-war shops and repurposing the space reduces waste and the environmental impact of new construction, making it a sustainable choice,' she said.